A recent incident at the historic Malhar Fort near Pune has sparked public debate about the need to preserve Maharashtra's cultural heritage. A man found smoking a hookah at the main gate of the fort was confronted by a responsible citizen, leading to a dramatic exchange that has since gone viral on social media.
According to eyewitnesses, the visitor was seen sitting casually at the entrance of the fort, smoking a hookah. An alert citizen approached him and asked him to stop, explaining the historical and cultural importance of the fort. However, the man ignored the request and continued smoking.
Angered by the blatant disrespect, the citizen reportedly smashed the hookah on the ground in front of the man. The confrontation ended with the smoker realizing his mistake and leaving the area. The video of the incident has been widely circulated online, with many people praising the citizen for taking a stand.
View this post on InstagramA post shared by विकी ज्योती पुंडलिक कुमावत (@viksss_k_07)
Disrespectful behavior at forts
This incident has once again brought attention to the growing problem of disrespectful behavior at historical forts in Maharashtra. Tourists are often seen littering, drinking alcohol, smoking, and defacing heritage sites.
Many citizens are now demanding that the Archaeological Department and local authorities impose stricter rules and take strict action against such acts. These forts, considered symbols of Maharashtra's pride and bravery, should be preserved with dignity and respect.
Locals and history enthusiasts are calling for increased security, clear guidelines for visitors, and heavy penalties for violations to protect these irreplaceable monuments.
Earlier, in April, youths were booked for tricking an unsuspecting New Zealand national into speaking Marathi swear-words went viral.
'Shivaji Maharaj Statue To Be Installed At CSMT; 12 Maratha Forts Get UNESCO Heritage Tag': CM Devendra Fadnavisमाझी महाराष्ट्र पोलिसांना विनंती आहे
— दत्ता चौधरी (@DattaChoud73764) April 11, 2025
छत्रपती शिवाजी महाराजांच्या सिंहगड किल्ल्यावर आलेल्या परदेशी पर्यटकांसोबत टवाळखोर अवलादीच्या लोकांनी जे कृत्य केले आहे त्याचा या लोकांना असा धडा शिकवा की यांना यांचे बापच नाही यांचे आजोबा पंजोबा आठवले पाहिजेत
😡😡😡@CMOMaharashtra pic.twitter.com/vjHzk8Tt0w
After the video went viral and demands were made on social media for action, Haveli police took notice of the incident on their own and registered a First Information Report under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita sections 302 (intentionally wounding the religious feelings of another person) and 352 (intentionally insulting someone to provoke a breach of peace).
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